Following a fine debut album in 2015 (‘Coming Home’), Leon Bridges returns in 2018 with two new singles, including the energetic, jazzy, “Bad Bad News.”

“Sometimes the bet isn’t worth the hand.” The talented retro-soul artist Leon Bridges returns after a three-year hiatus.  Back in 2015, Bridges compelled with his old-school approach on an underrated debut album, Coming Home.  Highlights from the effort include the title track and “Lisa Sawyer.” Upon announcing his sophomore album Good Thing (May 4, 2018), he dropped two new singles, “Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand” and “Bad Bad News.”

“Bad Bad News” contrasts the balladry of “Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand.” Mid-tempo, “Bad Bad News” isn’t too fast, feeling relatively comfortable. The overall sound and vibe fuses soul and jazz. That said, there’s the slightest dash of hip-hop, with the shout outs tastefully incorporated by the call-and-response sections. Leon Bridges sounds stellar, fully invested, delivering a balanced vocal performance.  For the old souls out there, “Bad Bad News” is anything but that – it’s good, good news.  Adding to the goodness are the horns, with the jazz guitar soloing being the crème de la crème.

Final Thoughts 

Will the return of Leon Bridges pique the interests of those outside of R&B/soul circles? The likely answer, as unfortunate as it may be, is no.  However, those firmly planted in R&B/soul circles will instantly feel the bountiful blessing that is “Bad Bad News.” It’s well-rounded – great vocals, classic-sounding production, and sold songwriting. “Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand” gets the edge, but not by much.

Leon Bridges • Good Thing • Columbia • Release: 3.16.18

Writers: Austin Michael Jenkins, Eric Frederic, Joshua Block, Nate Mercereau, Steve Wyreman, Todd Bridges & Wayne Hector | Producers: Nate Mercereau & Ricky Reed 

Photo Credit: Columbia